MIDDLETOWN >> It’s (vegan) ice cream season! If that’s not enough to get you excited, then hopefully these frozen cookie bites will do the trick.

They’re sweet, cold, and specially designed to be mixed in with your favorite vegan ice cream.

We’re legally not allowed to call this a “blizzard” ... but we can say it’s a monsoon of flavor and we know you’ll love it!

Cookie Bites

Makes about 20 bites

1/2 cup unsalted cashews

1/4 cup rolled oats

1/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 tsp salt

1.5 tbsp sugar (Florida Crystals)

1/2 tsp almond extract

3-4 tbsp pure organic maple syrup

1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips or dark chocolate shavings

Directions

Use a blender/food processor and blend cashews and oats until finely crumbled.

Add salt, sugar and flour and blend for a a few more seconds.

Add maple syrup and vanilla.

And then blend for a few more seconds.

Stir in chocolate chips by hand.

Form mini balls and freeze them.

I.O.N. Restaurant (previously known as It’s Only Natural) at 606 Main St. is one of Connecticut’s first vegan restaurants. Learn more at IONrestaurant.com. For other recipes, check out http://bit.ly/1J0GvMd.